Hey Orlando, Smart Design Is the Difference Between "Planting" and "Landscaping" 

Planting is haphazard: "Lets get a pine tree; where shall we put it?" "I have always wanted rambling roses; they would look great over there by the back fence." Sometimes this approach works; but sometimes it creates havoc. In today's Orlando Florida Real Estate market, it's important to gain every advantage possible, so have a plan before you start planting.

Landscaping is planned, artistic design. Starting with a concept (rustic, formal, Japanese, for example), you outline the large areas as if you were sketching the basic design of a picture: the placement of large trees and shrubs, the "living areas" for gathering, the "play areas"(a pool, badminton space), the flower (and herb or vegetable) gardens. Then you fill in the all-important details: small decorative pools, terrace planters, birdhouses and baths, outdoor lighting (in the ground and under the eaves). If you plan right, you can be as whimsical and creative as you please without creating havoc.

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Choose plants (trees, shrubs and flowers) that will keep the yard colorful all year round. Keep in mind the view of the yard from inside the house and, if possible, install picture windows to bring the scene right indoors. Also, since nobody wants to be a slave to a yard, plan for easy maintenance as well as good looks. Thats smart landscaping that pays off in many ways.

When it comes to buying and selling houses, working with professionals pays off in many ways, too. E-mail us to learn more about the advantages we can bring to your home-buying or selling experience.

Setting the Stage for a Successful Real Estate Sale In Orlando Florida

What's the best way to help your Orlando home make a glorious first impression on would-be buyers? Central Florida Real estate experts agree that "staging" (also called "fluffing") your home to show it in the most favorable light is well worth your time and effort.

Beyond the pre-sale cleaning and organizing you would expect to do, successful home staging includes strategically arranging objects and furniture, adding decorative touches and more. Here are a few tips from the pros to help buyers make an immediate emotional connection with your home: 

• Add a pot of fresh blooming flowers to the entryway (yellow is a very welcoming color)

• Open blinds to show off nice views. A vase on the window sill plays down less attractive views

• Add throw pillows, a soft lap blanket, candles and a candy dish for a cozy living room

• Use a soft bedspread, quilt, pillows and a throw rug to turn a bedroom into a relaxing retreat

• Set your dining room table with dishes, placemats, wine glasses, etc.

• Banish television sets, computers, kitchen and bathroom appliances from sight

• Don't forget the garage! Make sure surfaces are clean and neat. Store tools and gardening products to make room for cars.

Whether you do the staging yourself or have your home fluffed by a professional, one Chicago-area staging expert confirms that homes that are staged often sell 75% faster and for 3%6% higher than the asking price!

Read Also:   Want to Sell Your Home Fast in Today's Real Estate Market? Ask Us About Home Staging!